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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Marcos urges APEC to pursue inclusive, sustainable growth amid global challenges

Marcos urges APEC to pursue inclusive, sustainable growth amid global challenges

Published Oct 31, 2025 11:30 am  |  Updated Oct 31, 2025 04:01 pm
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. speaks at the APEC Leaders Meeting Session 1 at the Hwabaek International Convention Center in Gyeongju, South Korea, on Oct. 31, 2025. (APEC 2025 KOREA/Yonhap News)
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. speaks at the APEC Leaders Meeting Session 1 at the Hwabaek International Convention Center in Gyeongju, South Korea, on Oct. 31, 2025. (APEC 2025 KOREA/Yonhap News)
GYEONGJU, South Korea — President Marcos has called on the member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) to push for growth, inclusivity, and sustainability as the region navigates mounting global challenges.
Speaking at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting Session 1 here on Friday, Oct. 31, Marcos said economies must adapt to rapid change without abandoning the core values that have guided APEC since its founding.
“We face challenges now that may not have been contemplated or foreseen when our rules-based system was conceptualized—thus, the need for us to be responsive, dynamic, and forward-looking,” the President said.
He reminded leaders not to lose sight of APEC’s mission to deliver prosperity across the region.
“As we grapple to address these challenges, let us not lose sight of our objectives to bring growth, inclusivity, and sustainability to our region, as well as the core principles of openness, non-discrimination, and transparency,” Marcos added.

WTO reform

President Marcos identified several priority areas for cooperation, beginning with restoring the World Trade Organization (WTO)’s dispute settlement mechanism and Appellate Body, which he said were vital to maintaining a fair and functioning global trading system.
He also urged members to develop “new and forward-looking disciplines” to strengthen trade in the digital era and create a more enabling environment for small and medium enterprises.
The President added that the bloc must advance the global sustainability agenda, bolster food security, and finalize negotiations on the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement — a measure aimed at protecting marine resources from overexploitation.

Building smarter, sustainable supply chains

The President also called for stronger regional connectivity through smarter and more sustainable supply chains, emphasizing that innovation, regulatory reforms, and workforce development must go hand in hand.
While pointing out that digitalization should not leave anyone behind, Marcos underscored the need to “enhance cooperation, promote regulatory transparency, and pursue capacity-building initiatives,” ensuring that digital transformation and the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) lead to “inclusive and equitable growth across the region.”

Preserving APEC’s strength and trust

President Marcos said APEC’s relevance depends on its ability to bridge differences and foster mutual trust among its members.
He reaffirmed the Philippines’ readiness to work with all APEC partners “to uphold an open, connected, and future-ready region” built on resilience and shared prosperity.
Marcos arrived in South Korea on Thursday for the two-day summit, where he is also scheduled to meet with top business leaders and the Filipino community.
The 32nd APEC Summit is held under the theme “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow,” reflecting South Korea’s call for a more inclusive, forward-looking economic community.

Related Tags

President Marcos Bongbong Marcos APEC 2025
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